by Christopher Jones
Working as a chef in a busy restaurant tends to take up more time than you actually have to work with, which is why many chefs tend to look frazzled most of the time. Despite their busy schedule, chefs still have to make their own meals, buy their own clothes, and clean their own homes.
If you're a chef in the market for a new chef apron, but you're not sure where to start, then you've come to the right place. Keep reading to discover some great tips for picking out the perfect chef apron for your hectic career.
Contents
Typically, the amount of fabric that you need to make an apron depends on how long and wide you want the apron to actually be. As a simple rule of thumb you can follow, a piece of fabric that's 34 inches long and 29 inches wide should do the job just fine.
Now that you understand the different types of aprons available, as well as the different materials that are used, it's time to take a look at some of the most popular aprons on the market today.
The Women's Berkeley Petite Bib Apron by Chef Works is cropped and slimmed to give chefs a more flattering look. After all, who doesn't want to look good while they're preparing delicious meals on the food line? This 100 percent cotton apron comes in a variety of finishes and washes, including jet black, indigo, and white.
The Chef Works Women's Berkeley Apron comes complete with a pocket on the right side of the chest, as well as two pockets on the hips. The length of this apron is 29 inches and the width is 29 inches, as well, and it is able to be tied securely in the back. With its stylish suspenders (which can be purchased separately if you lose or damage them) and its tailored fit, anyone can look sharp in the Chef Works Women's Berekely Petite Bib Apron.
Pros
Cons
When it comes to making quality aprons for those in the culinary field, Chef Works really knows what they're doing. This tough looking apron may look like rugged denim, but in actuality, it's made out of 100% cotton. Because of the adjustable metal neck buckle and the contrasting tape ties, the Chef Works Unisex Memphis Bib Apron can be used by just about anyone with any type of body shape. This apron comes with double front pockets with a cell phone divide, so you don't have to worry about missing out on any important phone calls while you're working.
The criss-cross bar tacks of the apron allow the apron to be used as roughly as is needed and still maintain its stylish appearance. If you're the type of chef who likes to have all of your utensils readily available, then the two utility pockets on the chest of this apron will be absolutely perfect for you! The Chef Works Unisex Memphis Bib Apron is 34 inches in length and 30 inches in width, making it the perfect size for just about anyone!
Pros
Cons
When a chef is in the kitchen, they must play the part in every way. This means that not only does their food need to taste amazing, but their uniform needs to look sharp, as well. This chef apron not only looks professional, but it also includes a pure white chef hat, as well, giving the chef a complete look. Using only a high-quality blend of polyester and cotton, this chef apron is lightweight, thickened, and wear-resistant.
Using light care when washing, this set won't shrink or fade, allowing you to stay looking fresh and comfortable. Each apron measure 33"L x 26"W and features an adjustable neck strap and tie in the back. The hat has an adjustable elastic band, meaning both the hat and the apron are one size fits most. The two front pockets are exceptionally deep, allowing plenty of room for the different tools you may need in the kitchen.
Pros
Cons
It goes without saying that looking for a new apron is a hard decision for any kind of professional in the culinary industry, but it's exceptionally frustrating for a chef. This is why it's so incredibly important that the apron you buy can stand the test of time. If you're looking for an apron that will withstand the heat of the kitchen and the mess that comes with it, then you should check out the Cotton Denim Cook's Shawl Type Apron from MUJI.
Crafted with the toughest of chefs in mind, this apron is able to withstand all of the rough treatment that chef's aprons tend to experience while making sure that you look great at the same time. With the apron's over the shoulder straps and the tie that comes in the back, chefs don't need to worry about it becoming too loose, or falling down in the middle of a hectic shift.
Pros
Cons
If you're looking for an apron that's tough enough to handle the roughness of working in a kitchen, but soft against your skin, then you can stop looking right here. The Syntus Adjustable Bib Apron is made from polyester fiber, and it's free from chemicals, as well. The adjustable neck strap allows it to be suitable for people of just about every height. Also, the Syntus Adjustable Bib Apron also comes with long ties, so this apron is able to fit most people.
The two large pockets in the middle of the apron make it a great apron for carrying around your recipe cards, meat thermometer, and any other tool you may need. This apron covers the chest area all the way down to the knee area, so there's no need to worry about getting burnt from grease spills any longer!
Pros
Cons
Before you jump right in and pick the first apron that you see, you have to think about the type of material that you'll want your apron to be made of. Fortunately, there are many different types of materials to choose from, so choosing the right one boils down to your own personal preference. First, let's talk about the most commonly used material for chef aprons.
While cotton is great for many things, if you tend to work with a lot of wet materials then a cotton or muslin apron might not be for you. Typically, cotton or muslin aprons are used for baking, working with dry materials, and other activities that aren't really all that messy.
While this isn't the most cost-effective material for aprons, it can be extremely convenient for the chef on the go. Disposable aprons are used one time and then thrown away. They're typically made of thin plastic and used at short-term events, such as catering a wedding.
While you don't usually find rubber aprons in a kitchen, they can definitely come in handy in certain atmospheres. If your job requires that you work with a lot of wet or dangerous materials, then a rubber apron would be a perfect choice for you.
When a person is in culinary school to become a chef, they'll typically wear blue aprons to show that they're learning how to cook. Today, despite the fact that apprentices typically wear blue, chefs are wearing blue aprons to symbolize lifelong learning within the culinary field. Just like many other professions, there's a continuous opportunity to learn within the culinary field.
You may not be surprised to find out that there are several different types of aprons available to those in the culinary field. There are several factors that contribute to the type of apron a chef will choose to wear, including their employer's preference, what type of cuisine they're preparing, and the personal preference of the chef, as well. Before you choose an apron for yourself or for the staff in your restaurant, check out these different options so you'll make the right choice the first time around!
Server aprons tie around the waist and extend down to the mid-thigh area. While server aprons don't cover the chest, they do protect knee-length skirts and the tops of pants.
A bib apron is a full-length apron and provides protection for the entire chest area, as well as the top half of the legs. It hangs around the neck and ties around the waist for full coverage and protection
The bistro apron ties around the waist and provides full protection for the legs. It ties around the waist and extends down past the knees.
The cobbler apron provides protection for the front and the back of the chest area. On each side of the apron are adjustable ties, and the apron extends down to the mid-thigh region.
Commonly seen on members of the waitstaff, tuxedo aprons look classy while protecting the front-side of the body. It extends down to the knees and is typically used in high-scale restaurants.
This may seem like a no-brainer type of question, but there are actually several different ways that you can tie an apron. Now, depending on the type of apron you have, and personal preference, of course, will determine the way that you tie your apron. So before you jump into buying one, let's go over the basics.
1. Place the bib, the top portion of your apron, four or five inches below your collar bone. Tying it too high will choke you, and tying it too low will cause it to hang.
2. If the apron has a single bib loop, then you tie a knot in the back.
3. Thread the tie through the loop if the apron you purchased has a tie/loop closure.
1. Test to see if the apron falls above or below the knees. If the apron hangs below the knees, grab the apron at the hips and fold a section up.
2. Cross the apron's ties behind you and bring them to your front.
3. Tie the apron.
4. If the ties are extra long, or not long enough, then tie the knot behind your back.
All in all, as long as you know what you're looking for, buying an apron is a pretty simple thing to do. Just remember: safety is key, so if the apron is too long, then hem it or cut it to avoid getting caught on things. Also, you don't want to be uncomfortable in a blistering hot kitchen, so make sure to get a material that breathes well.
Syntus 2 Pack Adjustable Bib Apron Thicker Version Waterdrop Resistant with 2 Pockets - Walmart Link
Maison d' Hermine Colmar 100% Cotton 1 Piece Kitchen Apron with an Adjustable Neck & - Walmart Link
Hudson Durable Goods - Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron - Grey - Walmart Link
Hudson Durable Goods - Professional Grade Chef Apron - Black - 100% Cotton - Walmart Link
Caldo Daily Cotton Kitchen Apron for Cooking- Mens and Womens Professional Chef or Server - Walmart Link
Caldo Linen Kitchen Apron for Cooking- Mens and Womens Linen Bib Apron for Professional - Walmart Link
Chef Apron-Cross Back Apron for Men Women with Adjustable Straps and Large - Walmart Link
Syntus 12 Pack Bib Apron Waterdrop Resistant with 2 Pockets Cooking Kitchen Apron for - Walmart Link
Chef Works mens Bib Apron apparel accessories, Black/White Chalk Stripe, 34.25-Inch - Walmart Link
AFUN Chef Apron for Men, Thick Canvas Cross Back Kitchen Cooking Aprons with Pockets,M to - Walmart Link
Syntus 2 Pack Adjustable Bib Apron Waterdrop Resistant with 2 Pockets Cooking Kitchen - Walmart Link
Wealuxe Professional White Bib Aprons | 32x28 Inch | White | 2 Pack - Walmart Link
BIGHAS Adjustable Bib Apron with Pocket Extra Long Ties for Women Men, 18 Colors, Chef, - Walmart Link
Chef Works unisex-adult Berkeley Petite Bib Apron - Walmart Link
Chef Works AB035-BLK-0 Memphis Bib Apron, Black - Walmart Link
Yotache Chef Apron Set, Chef Hat and Kitchen Apron Adult Adjustable White Apron Baker - Walmart Link
Muji Denim Shoulder Apron - M - Walmart Link
Syntus 2 Pack Adjustable Bib Apron Thicker Version Waterdrop Resistant with 2 Pockets - eBay Link
Maison d' Hermine Colmar 100% Cotton 1 Piece Kitchen Apron with an Adjustable Neck & - eBay Link
Hudson Durable Goods - Heavy Duty Waxed Canvas Work Apron - Grey - eBay Link
Hudson Durable Goods - Professional Grade Chef Apron - Black - 100% Cotton - eBay Link
Caldo Daily Cotton Kitchen Apron for Cooking- Mens and Womens Professional Chef or Server - eBay Link
Caldo Linen Kitchen Apron for Cooking- Mens and Womens Linen Bib Apron for Professional - eBay Link
Chef Apron-Cross Back Apron for Men Women with Adjustable Straps and Large - eBay Link
Syntus 12 Pack Bib Apron Waterdrop Resistant with 2 Pockets Cooking Kitchen Apron for - eBay Link
Chef Works mens Bib Apron apparel accessories, Black/White Chalk Stripe, 34.25-Inch - eBay Link
AFUN Chef Apron for Men, Thick Canvas Cross Back Kitchen Cooking Aprons with Pockets,M to - eBay Link
Syntus 2 Pack Adjustable Bib Apron Waterdrop Resistant with 2 Pockets Cooking Kitchen - eBay Link
Wealuxe Professional White Bib Aprons | 32x28 Inch | White | 2 Pack - eBay Link
BIGHAS Adjustable Bib Apron with Pocket Extra Long Ties for Women Men, 18 Colors, Chef, - eBay Link
Chef Works unisex-adult Berkeley Petite Bib Apron - eBay Link
Chef Works AB035-BLK-0 Memphis Bib Apron, Black - eBay Link
Yotache Chef Apron Set, Chef Hat and Kitchen Apron Adult Adjustable White Apron Baker - eBay Link
Muji Denim Shoulder Apron - M - eBay Link
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
|
|
About Christopher Jones
Chris is a true globetrotter. He has been to many destinations and tried different types of food from all over the world, yet he still loves finding new places and tasting their specialties. Chris has always had an entrepreneurial spirit and so he decided to go back to school at age 24 for his MBA at University of San Francisco so that he could have a better understanding of business strategy in order to start his own company. His favorite motto is “how can one live well, travel well, and work well without having good food every time?”
Be with Chris: 
Kitchen Goodness
